The Zahir by Paulo Coelho

I recently blogged about the meaning of the "zahir", so thought that I would review Paulo Coelho's book, which I just read in September.

The Brazilian author PAULO COELHO was born in 1947 in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Before dedicating his life completely to literature, he worked as theatre director and actor, lyricist and journalist. And since becoming an author, he now adds blogging to his list of leisure activities.

Readers might be more familiar with The Alchemist or Eleven Minutes, but I am certain that The Zahir will become another of his well-read books. In fact, it is an International bestseller, so readers the world over have already enjoyed his message. That's what I like about Coelho. His books are not only wonderful to read, but they are full of important messages for people of the world to think about and reflect upon.

The Zahir begins with a glimpse or a passing thought. It ends in obsession .One day a renowned author discovers that his wife, a war correspondent, has disappeared, leaving no trace. Though time brings more success and new love, he remains mystified – and increasingly fascinated – by her absence. Was she kidnapped, blackmailed, or simply bored with their marriage? The unrest she causes is as strong as the attraction she exerts.His search for her – and for the truth of his own life – takes him from France to Spain, Croatia and, eventually, the bleakly beautiful landscape of Central Asia. More than that, it takes him from the safety of his world to a totally unknown path, searching for a new understanding of the nature of love and the power of destiny. With The Zahir, Paulo Coelho demonstrates not just his powerful and captivating storytelling, but also his extraordinary insight into what it is to be a human being in a world full of possibility.